The mayor of Detroit along with several community partners have come up with a 10-point plan they say would make it easier to collect payment on overdue water bills, pay bills, and access financial assistance.

Mayor Mike Duggan and Sue F. McCormick, the director of Detroit Water and Sewerage, announced Monday they'll be extending the moratorium on residential water shutoffs to Aug. 25.

The new plan will have turn-on fees and late payment penalties waived until the end of the moratorium period and a new payment structure will be set up that will require only a valid ID to enter. As well, more staff will be added at customer service and call centres.

“This plan provides great resources for those Detroiters who need some guidance and support in paying their bills,” said McCormick. “As more Detroiters get current on their bills, that means there is less of a deficit for other Detroit residents to pick up in the form of added charges on their bill. It really benefits everyone.”

A new assistance fund for low income families will also be established. It will be called the Detroit Water Fund.

“It was clear by the turnout at our fair last weekend at our east side centre that Detroiters want to stay on top of their bill," said Duggan. "We just needed to give them a better process. Under this plan, anyone who wants to address their overdue balance will have every opportunity to do so."

The city will host a Water Fair at Cobo Centre on Aug. 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving people a final chance to access the support they need in one spot.

To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.

By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.

Note: The CBC does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comments, you acknowledge that CBC has the right to reproduce, broadcast and publicize those comments or any part thereof in any manner whatsoever. Please note that comments are moderated and published according to our submission guidelines.